Wolff's fear came true: 'Was always afraid it would happen one day'
F1 News
- GPblog.com
Toto Wolff's great fear has come true: Mercedes spent part of the 2022 season in midfield after eight successful years. The team had to watch as Red Bull Racing won the world title in dominant fashion.
"I was always afraid that one day we would be in midfield or even further back. In 2022 it happened, we were struggling in the midfield. That was a disillusionment," Wolff begins in conversation with Speedweek.com.
As the season progressed, Mercedes managed to close the gap more and more. The second half of the season was therefore a lot more positive, including a win by George Russell. In the winter break, the team hopes to solve the last problems with the W13.
Hamilton not done with F1 yet
At the age of 37, Lewis Hamilton does not seem to be planning to retire anytime soon. The Briton is still motivated to win his eighth world title after the 2021 disappointment. Wolff also sees his driver wanting to give everything. "I see Lewis absolutely motivated and full of energy. He still has a bill to settle, even though he turns 38 in January. Lewis still has a lot of potential to drive fast."
The Mercedes team boss cites Fernando Alonso as an example, who is still competitive at the age of 41. "Lewis can stay active for a few more years, but it could suddenly happen that he stops if he does not meet his own demands," the Austrian concludes. Hamilton's contract runs until the end of 2023, but the Briton has already indicated that Mercedes is not yet rid of him.